🐶 No Experience? No Problem — Earn While You Train in a Pet Career Backed by the U.S. Labor Department
✨ Turn your passion for animals into a long-term career. A U.S. Department of Labor-supported apprenticeship at Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Palm Valley offers the chance to earn while you learn — gaining real grooming skills in a supportive, professional environment.
Why Consider a Career in Pet Grooming?
✅ Rising Demand: The pet industry is growing rapidly, with more families seeking professional grooming services.
✅ Career Stability: Skilled groomers are in high demand across the country — offering consistent employment and growth potential.
✅ No Experience Needed: Many career paths require prior training or certifications. This apprenticeship breaks those barriers.
✅ Government-Backed: Supported by the U.S. Department of Labor, the program follows national apprenticeship standards to ensure quality and credibility.
🌟 Program Highlights — What Makes It Different?
✅ Earn While You Learn: Apprentices receive real compensation while gaining professional grooming experience — no unpaid training periods.
✅ Hands-On Learning: Work directly with trained professionals, handling dogs of all breeds and temperaments from day one.
✅ Step-by-Step Skill Building:
• Begin with bathing, brushing, and prepping.
• Progress to clipping, trimming, and full-service grooming.
• Learn about coat types, skin health, and grooming safety.
✅ Mentorship That Matters: Experienced groomers provide regular feedback, coaching, and support throughout the journey.
✅ National Certification: Complete the program with a recognized credential that can open doors nationwide.
How to Join the Program
1. Location:
Primarily based at Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming in Palm Valley, Florida, with additional opportunities at select locations including:
St. Johns Parkway (Durbin)
Nocatee Town Center
Jacksonville Beach
...
📌 These locations offer similar apprenticeships, providing flexible options for applying in your area.
2. Who Can Apply:
• Must be motivated, dependable, and passionate about working with animals.
• No previous grooming experience is required.
3. Application Process:
- Submit Your Interest
• Visit any participating location or the company website
• Fill out a short form or send in your resume
• Indicate you're applying for the DOL Registered Apprenticeship
- Interview
• Meet with the grooming team
• Share your goals and availability
- Enrollment & Start
• Upon acceptance, the business handles your registration with the U.S. Department of Labor
• No need to apply to the government separately
• Start hands-on training immediately — no waiting period
Real Success: Maria’s Journey from Retail to Grooming Professional
Jasmine, 32, had never worked in the pet industry before joining the apprenticeship. “I was stuck in retail and always wanted to work with animals,” she says. “This program changed everything. I learned step-by-step, got feedback daily, and felt supported the whole way.”
After completing her apprenticeship, Jasmine was offered a full-time groomer position. “Now I wake up excited for work. I get to be around dogs all day and feel like I’m actually growing my career.”
❓ Common Questions Answered
🕒 How long is the apprenticeship?
The program typically runs one year, with flexible hours depending on the apprentice’s availability.
💼 Is there a penalty if I don’t complete it?
There is no financial penalty for leaving the program early, though apprentices who finish receive formal credentials and career placement support.
🔍 Do I need any prior certifications or schooling?
No. The program is designed for people starting from scratch, including those switching careers or reentering the workforce.
📈 Will I be hired after the program?
Many apprentices are offered full-time roles upon completion — and the experience is transferable across pet grooming businesses nationwide.
🐾 What kind of training will I get?
Training includes hands-on grooming, breed-specific care, safe handling techniques, customer communication, and even retail support within the bakery.
A Fresh Start in a Growing Field
Looking for a new career path that doesn't require experience or expensive schooling? The U.S. Labor Department-backed apprenticeship at Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming offers a unique chance to earn while you train as a professional pet groomer. With no prior grooming experience needed, hands-on learning, and nationally recognized certification, this program helps animal lovers turn passion into a sustainable career. Apply anytime and start immediately at locations across Palm Valley, Nocatee, Jacksonville Beach, and more.